Who needs a separate streaming media player nowadays? There are plenty of ways to access apps like Netflix or Disney+ on your TV screen. Almost all modern TVs are smart TVs with built-in streaming services. Additionally, devices like Blu-ray players, game consoles, and cable boxes come with pre-installed apps. If you’re a casual streamer with one or two subscriptions, your current smart device should be sufficient.
However, if streaming is your main way to enjoy home entertainment, a dedicated media streaming device that offers more power, customization, and content variety is recommended. The Google Chromecast with Google TV stands out as a top choice due to its modern interface, advanced search capabilities, and user-friendly design.
Our Recommendation
This device offers an easy-to-use interface, smart search functionality, and a convenient remote. However, it cannot be powered via your TV’s USB port.
Google’s Chromecast with Google TV excels in discovering and organizing streamed video content while supporting Dolby Vision HDR video, Dolby Atmos audio, and Bluetooth audio output—features typically sought in a media streaming device.
Unlike many competing platforms that present a grid of separate streaming apps, the Google TV home page emphasizes recently viewed shows, personalized recommendations, and a live TV interface that spans various apps. This layout simplifies and speeds up the content discovery process. Additionally, streaming content from mobile devices via Chromecast is seamless.
The device itself is compact, equipped with a Bluetooth remote that facilitates voice search and TV volume and power control. However, unlike some rivals, this player cannot draw power from your TV or projector’s USB port.
Second Choice
This compact player features a straightforward interface and can be powered by your TV’s USB port, but its search and browsing capabilities are less robust.
If you prefer a more basic, app-focused interface, the Roku Streaming Stick 4K offers a wide array of streaming services and supports major 4K HDR video standards. This small HDMI stick conveniently plugs directly into your TV’s HDMI input and can draw power from your TV’s USB port, while also providing AirPlay 2 support for easy streaming from iOS devices.
The remote uses RF technology, allowing it to work through walls and cabinets, includes dedicated TV power and volume controls, and features a microphone for voice search. For an additional $30, you can upgrade to the rechargeable Roku Voice Remote Pro, which includes a headphone jack, a remote locator, and an optional always-on voice assistant.
Roku’s interface is clean, customizable, and uncluttered. However, it may feel outdated and lacks the unified content integration found in the Chromecast’s Google TV interface. To fully enjoy the Roku experience, the Roku mobile app is recommended.
